New York City Center has announced the launch of an iPhone app that allows theatregoers to purchase tickets for all City Center performances, including Encores! and Manhattan Theatre Club productions, directly from their mobile device.

The free app includes up-to-date performance schedules, cast biographies and photos, as well as videos, behind-the-scenes interviews and special ticket offers. In the near future it will also allow for City Center employees to scan tickets directly from the iPhone screen when theatregoers purchase tickets with the app. Tickets are available for City Center performances of Encores!, MTC, the Pearl Theatre Company, the Fall for Dance Festival, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, American Ballet Theatre and Paul Taylor Dance Company.

"By simplifying the ticket buying process and providing interesting and informative details about our performances and artists, City Center continues to make the performing arts accessible and welcoming to new and existing audiences," City Center president and CEO Arlene Shuler said in a statement.